The Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean both offer idyllic island getaways. For British travellers looking to soak up the sun, culture and scenery, two popular options are the Maltese island of Gozo and the Spanish Canary Islands.
While they share crystalline waters and sunny shores, these island chains each have their own unique charm. Read on to discover the key differences between visiting these picturesque paradises.
Gozo, the sister island of Malta, is an up-and-coming destination that promises unspoilt natural beauty and a taste of authentic Maltese life. The historic capital of Victoria lets you explore Gozo's megalithic temples, winding alleyways and impressive citadel. Don't miss the Ggantija temples, considered to be the world's oldest free-standing monuments and the scenic Dwejra Bay's unique geological formations like Fungus Rock.
The Canary Islands offer more diversity, with each island having its own unique landscape and culture. Lanzarote has volcanic terrain and impressive works of art by César Manrique. Fuerteventura boasts seemingly endless golden beaches and tranquil villages. Gran Canaria combines lively resorts with mountainous interiors dotted with quaint towns. Tenerife is dominated by the towering Mount Teide volcano and has lush forests in the north and popular beach resorts in the south.
Both Gozo and the Canary Islands offer wonderful tours and excursions to help you make the most of the islands' natural beauty, culture and outdoor activities during your sunny island getaway.
Gozo offers wonderful boat trips where you can swim and sunbathe. A highlight is the boat trip, where you get the opportunity to go on a Gozo Comino and Blue Lagoon tour. During this tour, you get to visit the Blue Lagoon, known for its turquoise waters surrounded by dramatic natural cliffs, and explore the nearby island of Comino. There are also boat trips to discover secluded coves around Gozo's coastline.
The Canary Islands provide a diverse range of guided excursions. Whale and dolphin-watching boat trips provide opportunities to spot these magnificent marine mammals. Join guided hikes on Tenerife to experience stunning views from Mount Teide and the volcanic terrain. Lanzarote has unique landscapes that are perfect for island tours by jeep, camel, or quad bike. Across the islands, you'll also find fishing trips, city tours and more.
Gozo's intimate accommodation ranges from idyllic farmhouse rentals to boutique hotels, letting you immerse yourself in island life. In contrast, Canary Island resorts cater to mass tourism, with sprawling hotel complexes along the coasts offering every amenity for families and couples alike. More intimate hotels and holiday rentals can also be found, especially in Gran Canaria and Tenerife's interior regions. Both destinations give you a choice between peaceful retreats and livelier holiday accommodation.
Gozo's cuisine reflects Maltese culinary traditions, with fresh seafood, rustic stews and pastries influenced by the many cultures that have shaped its history. Local specialities include ġbejniet cheese, honey rings and Gozitan rabbit stew. Sample the fresh catch of the day in seaside restaurants, and don't miss ftira flatbread sandwiches and local wine tasting.
Canary Island dining is equally diverse, fusing Spanish flavours with North African and Latin American influences. Classic dishes include papas arrugadas, wrinkly potatoes with spicy mojo sauce, and sancocho canario, a hearty fish stew. The Canaries produce their own wines, while Gozo's vineyards craft artisanal vintages. Blending Spanish cuisine with exotic flavours, sample tapas, mojo sauces, spicy chorizo and Cuban ropa vieja stew. Each island also has unique specialities.
Gozo's small size means seeing the sights is easy without a car, but having your own transport allows you to visit secluded spots at your own pace. Buses, taxis, rental cars and scooters provide flexibility. Ferries connect Gozo with Malta and Comino frequently.
The Canaries have extensive roads and public transport, but a rental car is advised to explore each unique island fully. Inter-island ferries and flights easily connect the Canaries. Tenerife and Gran Canaria have tram services, and Lanzarote has bus tours. Driving on Gozo is relatively relaxed, while the Canaries' winding mountain roads can be challenging.
Gozo has a modest nightlife scene with laidback bars, and restaurants focused on casually sipping drinks by the sea or sampling Gozitan wines. Special events and festivals provide occasional evening entertainment.
Meanwhile, the Canary Islands come alive after dark with vibrant resort nightlife. The coasts buzz with bar and club scenes along beachfront promenades. Gran Canaria and Tenerife have lively gay nightlife. Famous Canarian carnivals explode with colourful parades and costumes. You'll also find cabaret dinner shows, concerts, theatre and more.
So, while Gozo provides a quieter nighttime experience, the Canary Islands promise high-energy entertainment long after sunset.
While Gozo charms with its old-world island beauty and tranquillity, the Canary Islands tempt with diverse landscapes and lively resorts. Whether you seek relaxation or excitement, natural wonders or vibrant culture, the islands of Gozo and the Canaries offer endless opportunities for fun and indulgence under the sun.
